In-line roller skates having quick-release axle system

ABSTRACT

A quick-release type axle system for in-line skates is disclosed. A pair of axle shafts cooperate with each other to support a wheel between a pair of frames. A release pin is inserted into a central bore formed through the axle shafts to lock the axle shafts relative to each other. In one embodiment, the release pin is pulled outwardly to release the axle shafts from the locked configuration, whereas in another embodiment, the release pin is pushed inwardly to achieve unlocking of the axle shafts. In some embodiments, a pair of release pins are used to achieve the quick-release mechanism of the present invention.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to in-line roller skates,and more particularly to a quick-release axle system for use in thesame.

[0003] 2. Brief Description of Prior Art

[0004] There are currently a wide variety of prior art axle systems inuse for mounting the wheels on in-line roller skates. Each skatemanufacturing company has it's own unique design and there are severalafter-market companies which also manufacture axle kits. Although eachone differs somewhat in design, the general configuration invariablyinvolves a threaded portion which is fastened with a nut.

[0005] In the common nut and bolt type axle system, the bolt (acting asthe axle shaft) passes through the axle aperture in the skate frame,then through the bearings and bearing spacer, and is held in place witha nut which is threaded onto the bolt from the opposite side andtightened against the skate frame.

[0006] Other systems have the threaded portion on the inside of the axleshaft. A screw is threaded into the axle from the opposite side andtightened to hold it in place. A third popular method involves threadingthe inside of the bearing spacer itself. A screw is then inserted fromeach side of the frame and threaded into the bearing spacer forming anaxle to support the wheel.

[0007] All of these methods involve a tightening sequence using allenwrenches, screw drivers, or wrenches of some type making installation orremoval of the wheels a tedious and time-consuming process.

[0008] In addition, it is a common problem to have the keyed slot,whether it be for an allen key or screwdriver, strip out making itextremely difficult, if not impossible, to remove the axle with thestandard designated tools. Usually these can only be removed by drillingor cutting the axle and replacing it with a new-one.

[0009] It is also possible for cross-threading to occur during assemblywhich makes removal extremely difficult as well.

[0010] Thus, there is a great need in the art for an improved axlesystem for use in connection with in-line roller skates, while avoidingthe shortcomings and drawbacks of prior art axle systems and wheelmounting methodologies.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0011] Accordingly, it is a primary object of the present invention toprovide an improved axle system for use in connection with in-lineroller skates, while avoiding the shortcomings and drawbacks of priorart axle systems and wheel mounting methodologies.

[0012] A further object, of the present invention is to provide such anaxle system, in which a quick release, snap-lock apparatus is used tosecure the wheels to the frame on an in-line skate.

[0013] A further object of the present invention is to provide such anaxle system, which can accommodate the different axle aperture diametersand bearing spacers most commonly used in in-line roller skates.

[0014] A further object of the present invention is to provide aquick-release type;axle system, in which a pair of axle shaftsautomatically engage and lock with a bearing spacer within a skatewheel-when a pair of axle release pins are inserted into a central boreformed through each such axle shafts, and the axle shafts automaticallydisengage from the bearing spacer when the release pins are pulled outslightly from the axle shafts

[0015] A further object of the present invention is to provide aquick-release type axle system, in which a pair of axle shaftsautomatically engage and lock with each other when an axle release pinis inserted into a central bore formed through one of such axle shaftand the axle shafts automatically disengage with each other when therelease pin are pulled out slightly from the axle shaft.

[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide aquick-release type axle system, in which a pair of axle shaftsautomatically engage and lock with a bearing spacer within a skate wheelwhen a pair of axle release pins are inserted into a central bore formedthrough each such axle shaft, and the axle shafts automaticallydisengage from the bearing spacer when the release pins are pushedinwardly into the bore formed in the axle shaft.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to provide aquick-release type axle system, in which a pair of axle shaftsautomatically engage and lock with each other when an axle release pinis inserted into a central bore formed through one of such axle shaftsand the axle shafts automatically disengage with each other when therelease pin is pushed inwardly into the bore formed in the axle shaft.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] For a more complete understanding of the Objects of the PresentInvention, the following Detailed Description of the IllustrativeEmbodiments of the Present Invention should be read in conjunction withthe accompanying Drawings, wherein:

[0019]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an in-line roller skate,incorporating the quick-release axle system of the first illustrativeembodiment of the present invention;

[0020]FIG. 2 is an exploded diagram of the quick-release axle system offirst illustrative embodiment of the present invention, showing themajor subcomponents thereof;

[0021]FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the bearing spacer used i inconjunction with the quick-release axle system of the first embodiment;

[0022]FIG. 2B is a perspective view of another type of bearing spacerused in conjunction with the quick-release axle system of the secondembodiment;

[0023]FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional diagram of the quick-release axlesystem of the present invention showing both axle shafts of the systemthe axle haft on the left is in its locked and ready position, while theaxle shaft on the right is in the release position as it would appearbeing either withdrawn or inserted through the axle aperture;

[0024]FIG. 4 is an elevated side view of the bearing spacer used in thefirst illustrative embodiment of the axle system of the presentinvention;

[0025]FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the bearing spacer of theillustrative embodiment, taken along line 4A-4A of FIG. 4;

[0026]FIG. 5 is an elevated cross-sectional diagram of one of the axleshafts removed from the quick-release axle system of the firstillustrative embodiment;

[0027]FIG. 6 is an elevated side view of the spring-like lock washerused in conjunction each axle shaft of the quick-release axle system ofthe first illustrative embodiment;

[0028]FIG. 7 is an elevated side view of the release pin, spring andC-clip subassembly that slides along the central bore of each axle shaftof the quick-release axle system of the first illustrative embodiment;

[0029]FIG. 8 is an elevated, cross-sectional schematic diagram of thesecond illustrative embodiment of the quick-release axle system of thepresent invention, showing a pair of axle portions releasably engagedwith a bearing spacer supported within a wheel of an in-line skate;

[0030]FIG. 8A is an elevated side view of the release pin as used inconjunction with the quick-release axle system of the second embodimentof FIG. 8 which utilizes the “pull” method for axle release;

[0031]FIG. 9 is an elevated, cross-sectional schematic diagram of thethird illustrative embodiment of the quick-release axle system of thepresent invention, showing a pair of axle portions releasably engagedwith each other while passing through a wheel of an in-line skate;

[0032]FIG. 10 is an elevated, cross-sectional schematic diagram of thefourth illustrative embodiment of the quick-release axle system of thepresent invention, showing a pair of axle portions; and

[0033]FIG. 10A is an elevated side view of the release pin as used inconjunction with the quick-release axle system of the second embodimentof FIG. 10 which utilizes the “push” method for axle release;

[0034]FIG. 11 is a exploded diagram of the fifth illustrative embodimentof the quick-release axle system of the present invention; and

[0035]FIG. 11A is an elevated cross-sectional schematic diagram of thefifth illustrative embodiment of the quick-release axle system of FIG.11, which utilizes the “push” method for axle release.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENTINVENTION

[0036] Referring to the figures in the Drawings, the illustrativeembodiments of the in-line roller skate of the present invention, andthe quick-release axle systems incorporated therein, will be describedin great detail. In connection with this detailed description, likestructures being indexed with like reference numbers.

Overview of the In-Line Skate of the Present Invention

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, a generalized embodiment of an in-line skateof the present invention, comprises a number of components, namely: aframe 1 having a pair of spaced apart frame rails 2A and 2B; a set ofwheels 3, rotatable supported by way of the quick-release axle system ofthe present invention, between the frame rails; a brake structure 4typically made of rubber or hard plastic and mounted on the rear of theskate frame, for use in braking operations; and a boot portion 5 mountedto the frame and adapted for comfortably receiving the foot of its user.Details regarding the general design of prior art in-line skates aredisclosed in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 5,362,075, incorporated herein byreference. It is understood that the design of the boot and the framestructure of the in-line skate hereof may differ from embodiment toembodiment thereof without departing from the scope or spirit of thepresent invention. Any of the illustrative embodiments of thequick-release axle system of the present invention described below canbe incorporated in such in-line skate designs.

In-Line Skate Embodying The Quick-Release Axle System of the FirstIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0038] In FIG. 2, an exploded perspective view of the quick-release axlesystem of the first illustrative embodiment is shown. As illustrated,the system comprises three subcomponents, namely: a bearing spacer 6installed between the bearing assemblies 7A and 7B; first and secondaxle shafts 8A and 8B; and first and second axle-shaft release pins 9Aand 9B. Notably as axle shafts 8A and 8B are identical, the descriptionof the structure will be made with reference to axle shaft 8B forpurposes of explication. Each wheel on the in-line skate consists of atire portion 10 surrounding an inner core 10A which has been formed withan inner bore so as to receive bearings 7A and 7B with bearing spacer 6disposed therebetween.

[0039] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the bearing spacer 6 has a centralportion 6A and hollow end portions 6B and 6C extending therefrom. Theends of the bearing spacer 6 are machined with an outer diameter thatpermits the bearing spacer to fit into the inner bore of the inner raceof the bearings 7A and 7B. The center portion of the spacer 6A has alarger diameter than the end portions thereof 6B and 6C in order tocreate a shoulder that contacts the inner races of the bearings. Thebearing spacers are provided with an inner bore 6D through which eachwheel axle shaft 8A and 8B is passed enabling the wheel to be attachedto the skate frame. In the illustrative embodiment, four equally-spacedindents 11 (e.g., holes of 0.0940 inch diameter) are formed at apredetermined distance from the end of the bearing spacer. The functionof these holes is to receive an axle-locking ball (i.e., sphericalelement) 12 (e.g., 0.09385 inch diameter). This arrangement forms amechanism for locking the axle shaft relative to the bearing spacer. Thesteel material of the axle shaft around these ball bearings is crimpedin order to keep them from falling back out of the detents.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, each axle shaft 8A and 8B has a hollowbore 13 (of about 0.130 inch diameter) formed centrally therethrough,and an end cap portion 14. In the illustrative embodiment, the capportion is about 0.1875 inches at its thickest point. A recess, FIG. 2,18 is machined into one half of the cap portion 14 in order to allow foran access point for the release pin. The outer diameter of the axleshaft has an outer diameter of about a 0.25 inch and is adapted forinsertion through an aperture 15 formed in the frame rail and the hollowbore 6D of the end portion of the bearing spacer. The bore at once endof the axle shaft is enlarged to a diameter of 0.1875 for a length ofabout 0.215 inches in order to accommodate a return spring 16 andretaining clip 17 slipped over the end of the release i pin 9A (9B)

[0041] As shown in FIG. 7, each axle-shaft release pin 9A and 9 b has afirst cylindrical body portion 19 of a first length, and a secondcylindrical body portion 20 of a second (i.e., shorter) length separatedby a tapered portion 21 of narrower diameter than the first and secondcylindrical portions of the release pin. A hole 22 having a 0.0625 inchdiameter is drilled through the release pin shaft 19 at about 0.093inches from one end of the shaft, as shown in FIG. 3. The function ofhole 22 is to allow a tool or pin to be used to pull the release pin 9A,(9B) out of the axle shaft during axle release operations. When therelease pin is retained within the axle shaft, during the axle lockedconfiguration, the hole 22 in the release pin is recessed within the endof the axle shaft (as shown in the left side of FIG. 3) and thus, cannotbe inadvertently pulled out during roller skating activity.

[0042] In the illustrative embodiment, a recess or slot 23 (e.g., havingdimensions of 0.0312 inch deep×0.145 inches long) is machined into theshaft at about 0.100 inches from the end of the axle shaft where thehole 22 has been drilled. The function of this slot 23 is to allow forthe insertion of a retaining pin or screw 24 through a hole drilledlaterally through the side of the cap portion extending therefrom intothe inner bore of the axle shaft so that the release pin can be retainedwithin the bore of the axle shaft.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, a small return spring 16 is installedover the end of the release pin shaft 20 and c-clip retainer 17 ispushed onto a machined groove 25 in the axle shaft in order to retainthe return spring on the end portion thereof. The function of the returnspring 16 is to hold the release pin in the locked position within theaxle shaft during the vibration encountered while skating. With thisarrangement, the return spring 16 is then trapped between the c-clip 17and the inner flange 26 machined within the bore of the axle shaft,while the retaining screw 24 is inserted into the slot 23 formed in theend of the release pin. As shown in FIG. 3, the release pin 22 isretained within the bore of the respective axle shaft and is permittedto slide therewithin a distance equal to the length of slot 23 formed inthe end of the release pin.

[0044] As shown in FIG.3, a curved spring steel washer 27 (of 0.017inches thickness and 0.500 inch outer diameter and inner diameter ofabout 0.251 inches) is positioned over the axle shaft. The spring washer27 is pressed against the inner surface of the end cap 14 in order toprovide tightness when the axle shafts are installed and locked to thebearing spacer. Also, a nylon plastic cover may be fashioned to snap-fitover the cap end 14 of the main axle.

Assembly And Disassembly of the Quick-Release Axle System Of The FirstIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0045] Each bearing 7A and 7B is installed into the wheel from oppositesides, separated by bearing spacer 6A. As the axle shaft is insertedinto the bore of the bearing spacer, the locking balls 12 held withinthe shaft by crimpings automatically fall into place into thecorresponding holes 11 in the bearing spacer. The release pin is thenallowed to retract within the inner bore of the axle shaft due to thepressure of the return spring 16 which automatically forces the releasepin inward toward the bearing spacer so that the central portion 21thereof is positioned directly beneath detent holes 11 and contacts thesurface of the steel locking balls 12 forcing them to remain lockedwithin the holes 11 (detents) formed in the bearing spacer. In thislocked configuration, shown in the left side of FIG. 3, the cylindricalportion 19 of the release pin 9A renders it impossible for the ballbearings 12 to move downward, or out of their corresponding detents, andthus provides an extremely strong and efficient locking mechanism.

[0046] When the release pin 9A is pulled outwardly from the axle shaft6A by an amount limited by the length of slot 23, (i.e., against theoutwardly directed biasing forces produced by return spring 16), theball bearings 12 are permitted to fall within the narrow circumferentialgroove 21 formed in the portions of the release pin, as shown in theright side of the figure of FIG. 3. In this unlocked configuration, theaxle shaft is released from the bearing spacer and can be withdrawn fromthe bearing spacer, wheel assembly and skate frame. When both releasepins on a particular wheel have been “released” or arranged into theirunlocked configuration, then the associated axle shafts can be withdrawnfrom the bearing spacer and the wheel assembly easily removed from theframe of the in-line skate.

[0047] Pulling the spring-biased release pin 9A out from itscorresponding axle shaft can be carried out using a small tool, (e.g., apaper clip or an accessory device). The tool is slid through the hole 22formed in the end of the release pin and allows the release pin to bepulled out slightly (against the force of the return spring) so that theballs 12 retaining the axle shaft within the bearing spacer can beallowed to fall out of their corresponding holes, as describedhereinabove.

[0048] In the locked configuration, curved spring steel washer 27applies pressure to the outside of the skate frame in order to take upany slack and provide a tight fit. The fit can be adjusted further, ifdesired, by using washers of different thicknesses as shims installedover the axle shaft to be positioned between the spring steel washer andthe skate frame.

In-Line Skate Embodying The Quick-Release Axle System of the SecondIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0049] A second illustrative embodiment of the quick-release axle systemof the present invention is shown in FIGS. 8 and 8A. While thisembodiment is quite similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3, there are anumber of minor differences. In particular, the bearing spacer 30 inFIG. 8 does not have an outer bore surface that slides into the innerbore of the inner race of the bearing, as in the first embodiment shownin FIG. 3. Instead, the bearing spacer 30 is shaped like a bushing whoseinner and outer diameters are exactly the same as the inner and outerdiameters of the inner race of the bearing itself. Therefore, the axleshaft diameter is larger in order to correspond with the diameter of theinner bore of the inner bearing race.

[0050] Circumferential grooves 31A and 31B are cut into the innersurface of the inner bore of the bearing spacer 30 (about 0.030 inchesdeep) in lieu of the equally spaced holes in the bearing spacer of thefirst illustrative embodiment described above. When the axle shaft ispushed into place, the locking balls lock into place within the recessprovided by the groove. The groove is positioned so as to create a tightfit between the flange and the skate frame upon installation. Otherminor differences will be described below.

Assembly And Disassembly of The Quick-Release Axle System of The SecondIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0051] As in the case of the first illustrative embodiment, each bearingis installed into the wheel from opposite sides and separated by bearingspacer 30. As the axle shafts 6A and 6B are inserted into the bore ofthe bearing spacer, the locking balls 12 held within the shaft bycrimpings automatically fall into place into corresponding grooves 31Aand 31B. Releasing the release pin allows pressure from the returnspring 16, which is compressed within the bore of shaft 6A (6B) betweeninterior flange 34 and circumferential flange 33, to cause the releasepin to slide inward toward the center of the spacer, so that the outersurface of circumferential flange 33 is disposed directly beneath andcontacts the surface of the axle-locking balls 12, forcing them toremain locked within the circumferential groove 31A (31B) formed in theinner bore of the bearing spacer. In this configuration, the end of therelease pin will remain recessed within the bore of the axle shaft,while the axle shaft and bearing spacer are securely locked together andthe release pin is prevented from being inadvertently pulled out of itslocked configuration. In this locked configuration, shown in the rightside of the figure of FIG. 8, the release pin 9A (9B) renders itimpossible for the ball bearings 12 to move downward, or out of theircorresponding grooves 31A (31B), and thus provides an extremely strongand efficient locking mechanism.

[0052] When the release pin 9A (9B) is pulled outwardly by an amountlimited by the length of slot 23, (i.e., against the outwardly directedbiasing forces produced by return spring), the locking balls 12 arepermitted to fall within the narrow circumferential recess 35 formedbetween the outer surface of the end portions of the release pin, asshown in the left side of the figure of FIG. 8. In this unlockedconfiguration, the axle shaft is released from the bearing spacer andcan be withdrawn from the bearing spacer 30, wheel assembly and skateframe. When both release pins on a particular wheel have been “released”or arranged into their unlocked configuration, then the associated axleshafts can be withdrawn from the bearing spacer 30 and the wheelassembly can be easily removed from the frame of the in-line skate.

[0053] Pulling the spring-biased release pin 9A (9B) out from itscorresponding axle shaft can be carried out using a small tool, (e.g., apaper clip or accessory device) that slides through the hole 22 formedin the end of the release pin and allows the release pin to be pulledout slightly (against the a force of the return spring) so that thelocking balls 12 retaining the axle shaft within the bearing spacer 30can be allowed to fall out of their corresponding holes, as describedhereinabove.

In-Line Skate Embodying The Quick-Release Axle System of the ThirdIllustrative Embodiment Of The Present Invention

[0054] In FIG. 9, a third alternative embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. In this embodiment, the bearing spacer is not usedas part of the axle-shaft locking mechanism. Instead, the axle systemcomprises: a main axle shaft 40 insertable through the first skate framewall 2A, the first bearing 7A, the bearing spacer 41, the second bearing7B, and the second skate frame wall; and a secondary axle shaft 42 forinsertion within a central bore 43 formed within the main axle shaft 40.As shown in FIG. 8, the main shaft axle has head portion 44 formed onone end of its cylindrical body portion, and central bore 43 formedthrough the end of its body portion opposite head portion 44. The lengthof the bore 43 extends about half way across the length of the axleshaft. A release pin 45, similar in design as the release pin 9A (9B)shown in FIG. 8, is provided for insertion through a central bore 46formed in the secondary axle shaft 42, to engage with ball bearing 12.As shown in FIG. 9, a circumferential groove 47 is cut into the innersurface of the inner bore of the main axle shaft 42. The locking portionworks exactly the same as in the second embodiment, but the dimensionsof the components are smaller. The main and secondary axle shafts 40 and42 inserted from opposite sides of the skate frame, pass push the frame,bearings and bearing spacer, and lock together forming the axle.

[0055] In the illustrative embodiment, the main axle shaft 40 has anouter diameter of about 0.3125 inches and is adapted for insertionthrough apertures 2A and 2B formed in the frame rail 2A and 2B. Roundedcap portion 44 is about 0.1875 inches at its thickest point. A recess48, 0.0625 inches deep and 0.089 inches long is machined into one halfof the cap in order to allow for an access point for the release pin 45.

[0056] A hole 49 having a 0.0625 inch diameter is drilled through therelease pin shaft at about 0.093 inches from one end thereof, as shownin FIG. 9. The function of hole 49 is to allow a tool or pin to be usedto pull the release pin 45 out of the axle shaft during axle releaseoperations. When the secondary axle shaft 42 is retained within the mainaxle shaft, during the axle locked configuration, the hole in therelease pin is recessed within the end of the axle shaft and thus cannotbe inadvertently pulled out during roller skating activity.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 9, a small return spring 16 is installed overthe central body portion of the release pin shaft and restrained by anenlarged annular-shaped flange 50, which is designed to engage balls 12in the system's locked configuration. The function of the return springis to hold the release pin in the locked position within the axle shaftduring the vibration encountered while skating. Within this arrangement,the return spring is then trapped between the annular 50 and the innerflange 51 of the machined groove bore 52 formed in the axle shaft, whilethe retaining pin 24 is inserted into the slot 53 formed in the end ofthe release pin, as shown in FIG. 9. As such, the release pin 45 isretained within the bore of the secondary axle shaft and is permitted toslide therewithin a distance equal to the length of slot 53 formed inthe end of the release pin. As shown in FIG. 9, a curved spring steelwasher 27 is positioned over the secondary axle shaft 42 which tightensthe axle system in the locked configuration. Also, a nylon plastic covercan be snapped over the cap end of the second axle shaft.

Assembly And Disassembly of the Quick-Release Axle System of The ThirdIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0058] Each bearing 7A, 7B is installed into the wheel from oppositesides. Then, the main axle shaft is inserted into the bore of the wheeland thereafter the secondary axle shaft is slid into the bore within themain axle shaft. When the release pin 45 is slid into the bore of thesecond axle shaft, the two steel locking balls are automatically forcedinto place into the circumferential groove 54 formed within the controlportion of the bore 52 within the main axle shaft. In thisconfiguration, the end of the release pin will remain recessed withinthe bore of the primary axle shaft, while the primary axle shaft andsecond axle shaft are securely locked together and the release pinprevented from being inadvertently pulled out of its lockedconfiguration. In this locked configuration, shown in FIG. 9, therelease pin 45 renders it impossible for the axle-locking balls 12 tomove downward, or out of their corresponding detents, and thus providesan extremely strong and efficient locking mechanism.

[0059] When the release pin 45 is pulled outwardly by an amount limitedby the length of slot 53, (i.e. against the outwardly directed biasingforces produced by the return spring), the ball bearings 12 arepermitted to fall within the narrow circumferential groove 54. In thisunlocked configuration, the secondary axle shaft 42 is released from theprimary axle shaft 40 and can be withdrawn therefrom, as well as thewheel assembly and the skate frame. When the release pin on a particularwheel has been “released” or arranged into its unlocked configuration,then the secondary axle shaft can be withdrawn from the primary axleshaft and the wheel assembly easily removed from the frame of thein-line skate.

[0060] Pulling the spring-biased release pin 45 out from the main axleshaft can be carried out using a small tool, (e.g. a paper clip oraccessory device) that slides through the hole 48 formed in the end ofthe release pin.

In-Line Skate Embodying The Quick-Release Axle System of the FourthIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0061]FIGS. 10 and 10A, a fourth illustrative embodiment of the quickrelease axle system is shown. In this embodiment, wherein the releasepins are released by a “pushing” operation rather than by a pullingoperation. As in the case of the second illustrative embodiment, eachbearing 7A, 7B is installed into the wheel 10 from opposite sides andseparated by bearing spacer 60. As the axle shafts 61A (61B) areinserted into the bore of the bearing spacer, the locking balls 12 heldwithin the shaft by crimpings, automatically fall into place withincorresponding grooves 62A (62B). Then as the release pin 68A (68B) isslid within the inner bore of the axle shaft and the retaining pin 24inserted within the slot 64 formed therein, the return spring 16,retained between circumferential flange 65 and c-clip 66 (incircumferential groove 70) will automatically force the release pinoutwards (away from the center of the bearing spacer) so thatcircumferential flange 67 is disposed directly beneath and contacts thesurface of the axle-locking balls 12, forcing them to remain lockedwithin the circumferential groove 62(A), 62(B) formed in the bearingspacer. In this configuration, the end of the release pin will remainrecessed within the bore of the axle shaft, while the axle shaft andbearing spacer are securely locked together and the release pinprevented from being inadvertently pulled out of its lockedconfiguration. In this locked configuration, shown in the right side ofthe figure of FIG. 10, the release pin 68A 68(B) renders it impossiblefor the axle-locking balls 12 to move downward, or out of theircorresponding grooves 62A 62(B), and thus provides an extremely strongand efficient locking mechanism.

[0062] When the release pin 9A (9B) is pushed inwardly by an amountlimited by the length of slot 64, (i.e., against the outwardly directedbiasing forces produced by return spring), the axle-locking balls 12 arepermitted to fall within the narrow circumferential recess 69 formedbetween the outer surface and end portions of the release pin, as shownin the right side of the figure of FIG. 10. In this unlockedconfiguration, the axle shaft is released from the bearing spacer andcan be withdrawn from the bearing spacer 30, wheel assembly and skateframe. When both release pins on a particular wheel have been “released”or arranged into their unlocked configuration, then the associated axleshafts can be withdrawn from the bearing spacer 30 and the wheelassembly easily removed from the frame of he in-line skate.

[0063] Pushing the spring-biased release pin 68A (68B) into itscorresponding axle shaft can be carried out using a small tool (e.g., ascrew driver or accessory device) that is slid into the open end of thebore in the axle shaft, and pushed against release pin (against theforce of the return spring) so that the axle-locking balls 12 retainingthe axle shaft within the bearing spacer 60 can be allowed to fall outof their corresponding holes, as described above.

In-Line Skate Embodying The Quick-Release Axle System of the FifthIllustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0064]FIGS. 11 and 11A, a fifth illustrative embodiment of the quickrelease axle system is shown. The fifth embodiment of the presentinvention is constructed in the same manner as the second embodimentexcept that only a single axle shaft 8B″ is used instead of two separateaxle shafts to support each wheel. In this configuration, the axle shaft6B″ does not interlock with the bearing spacer 6. Instead, the axleshaft 8B″ is made long enough to pass through the skate frame 2B fromone side, through the frame spacer, wheel and bearing assemblies 7A, 7Band the axle aperture in the frame portion on the opposite side. Theinterlocking balls 12 then use the outer surface of the other side ofthe skate frame 2A itself to lock the axle shaft in place when therelease pin 9B″ is allowed to slide into position, beneath the lockingballs, within the main axle bore 70 formed therein.

[0065] As in the case of the second illustrative embodiment, eachbearing 7A, 7B is installed into the wheel 10 from opposite sides andseparated by bearing spacer 6. As the axle shaft 8B″ is inserted throughthe bore of the bearing spacer, and bearings 7A, 7B and frame rails 2A,2B as shown in FIG. 11A, the locking balls 12 held within the shaft bycrimpings, automatically fall into place outside the outer surface ofskate frame 2A, creating a locking mechanism. Then as the release pin9B″ is slid within the inner bore of the axle shaft (or the side offrame rail 2A) and the retaining pin 24 inserted within the slot 64formed therein, the return spring 16, retained between circumferentialflanges 65′ and 67′ will automatically force the release pin outwards(away from the center of the bearing spacer) so that circumferentialflange 67′ is disposed directly beneath and contacts the surface of theaxle-locking balls 12, forcing them to remain locked outside frame rail2A. In this configuration, the end of the release pin will remainrecessed within the bore of the axle shaft, while the axle shaft issecurely locked between the frame rails 2A and 2B while the release pin9B″ is prevented from being inadvertently pulled out of its lockedconfiguration. In this locked configuration, shown in the right side ofthe figure of FIG. 11A, the release pin 9B″ renders it impossible forthe axle-locking balls 12 to move downward, or away from the outersurface of frame unit 2A, and thus provides an extremely strong andefficient locking mechanism.

[0066] When the release pin 9B″ is pulled automatically outwardly by anamount limited by the length of slot 64, (i.e., against the outwardlydirected biasing forces produced by return spring), the axle-lockingballs 12 are permitted to fall within the central bore of the axleshaft. In this unlocked configuration, the axle shaft is released fromthe frame rails 2A and can be withdrawn from the bearing spacer 6, wheelassembly and skate frame. When the release pin on a particular wheel hasbeen “released” or arranged into its unlocked configuration, then theassociated axle shaft can be withdrawn from the bearing spacer and thewheel assembly easily removed from the frame of he in-line skate.

[0067] In the alternative embodiment of the axle system shown in FIGS.11 and 11A, a cap can be used to engage with locking balls 12, outsideof the rail frame 2A. In such an embodiment, the cap will have an innerbore with a diameter which is slightly larger than the diameter of theaxle shaft 8B″. A circumferential groove is then machined at apredetermined distance from one end of the cap within the inner bore.The cap is then pressed onto the protruding portion of the axle shaft8B″ from the opposite side of the frame 2A. The locking balls 12 theninterlock within the circumferential groove in the cap when the releasepin is allowed to slide into position within the bore formed through theaxle shaft 8B″.

[0068] As in the previous examples, the axles may be designed so thatreleasing the axle from the skate is accomplished by pulling the releasepin outward slightly, or they may be designed so that the releaseprocedure involves pushing the release pin inward slightly.

[0069] While the present invention has been exemplified by theillustrative embodiment thereof described above, it is understood thatsuch embodiments can be readily modified without departing from theshape and spirit of the present invention set forth by the appendedclaims to invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An axle system for use in an in-line skate havinga plurality of wheels rotatably supported by a pair of wheel bearingsdisposed between a pair of spaced apart frame rails, said axle systemhaving a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration andcomprising: a pair of axle shafts for passage through said frame railsand one of said wheels for rotatable supporting said wheel between saidframe rails along a rotational axis, and at least one of said pair ofaxle shafts having a bore formed therethrough along said rotationalaxis; and a release pin for insertion into said bore and releasablylocking said axles shafts relative to each other when arranged in saidlocked configuration to prevent said axle shafts from disengaging fromsaid wheel during skating, and for releasing said axle shafts from saidwheel when arranged in said unlocked configuration.
 2. The axle systemof claim 1, wherein said release pin is spring biased within said boreto a predetermined locking position which locks said axle shaftsrelative to each other when arranged in said locking configuration. 3.The axle system of claim 2, which further comprises a plurality of ballsarranged within at least one said axle shaft for engagement with saidrelease pin so as to interlock said axle shafts in said lockedconfiguration.
 4. The axle system of claim 1, wherein at least one saidaxle shaft has a cap portion with a hole formed therethrough incommunication with said bore, and said release pin has a notch formed insaid release pin so that when a retaining pin is inserted through saidhole, said retaining pin is engaged within said notch and delimits theamount that said release pin is permitted to slid within said bore. 5.The axle system of claim 4, which further comprises a bearing spacerdisposed between said wheel bearings and said axle shafts engage saidbearing spacer by way of said locking balls.
 6. The axle system of claim1, wherein each said axle shaft has a bore formed along said rotationalaxis and a plurality of balls arranged within said axle shaft, and onesaid release pin is inserted through each said bore in order to engagesaid locking balls and lock said axle shaft within said wheel.
 7. Theaxle system of claim 1, wherein said release pin is pulled out of saidbore by a predetermined amount in order to unlock said axle shafts insaid unlocked configuration.
 8. The axle system of claim 1, whichfurther comprises a curved spring washer to produce equalizing forcesupon said frame rails.
 9. The axle system of claim 2, wherein at leastone said axle shaft has a cap portion with a hole formed therethrough incommunication with said bore, and said release pin has a notch formed insaid release pin so that when a retaining pin is inserted through saidhole, said retaining pin is engaged within said notch and delimits theamount that said release pin is permitted to slid within said bore. 10.A quick-release type axle system for use in an in-line skate,comprising: a bearing spacer for spacing a pair of wheel bearings withina skate wheel in said in-line skate; a pair of axle shafts for rotatablysupporting said skate wheel on said wheel bearings about a rotationalaxis, and each said axle shaft having a central bore and engaging withsaid bearing spacer along said rotational axis; and a pair of axlerelease pins for insertion into said central bores of said pair of axleshafts, respectively, and causing said axle shafts to automatically lockwith said bearing spacer when said release pins are pushed into saidcentral bores of said axle shafts to a first predetermined positionwithin said central bore, and automatically unlock from said bearingspacer when said release pins are pulled outwardly from said centralbores of said axle shafts to a second predetermined position.
 11. Aquick-release type axle system for use in an in-line skate, comprising:a bearing spacer for spacing a pair of wheel bearings within a skatewheel in said in-line skate; a pair of axle shafts for rotatablysupporting said skate wheel on said wheel bearings about a rotationalaxis, and each said axle shaft having a central bore and engaging withsaid bearing spacer along said rotational axis; and a pair of axlerelease pins for insertion into said central bores of said pair of axleshafts, respectively, and causing said axle shafts to automatically lockwith said bearing spacer when said release pins are pushed into saidcentral bores of said axle shafts to a first predetermined positionwithin said central bore, and automatically unlock from said bearingspacer when said release pins are pushed inwardly into said centralbores of said axle shafts to a second predetermined position.
 12. Aquick-release type axle system for use in an in-line skate, comprising:a pair of axle shafts for rotatably supporting a skate wheel on a pairof wheel bearings about a rotational axis, and each said axle shafthaving a central bore; and a pair of axle release pins for insertioninto said central bores of said pair of axle shafts, respectively, andcausing said axle shafts to automatically lock relative to each otherwhen said release pins are pushed into said central bores of said axleshafts to a first predetermined position within said central bore, andautomatically unlock when said release pins are pulled outwardly fromsaid central bores of said axle shafts to a second predeterminedposition.
 13. A quick-release type axle system for use in an in-lineskate, comprising: a pair of axle shafts for rotatably supporting askate wheel on a pair of wheel bearings about a rotational axis, andeach said axle shaft having a central bore; and a pair of axle releasepins for insertion into said central bores of said pair of axle shafts,respectively, and causing said axle shafts to automatically lockrelative to each other when said release pins are pushed into saidcentral bores of said axle shafts to a first predetermined positionwithin said central bore, and automatically unlock when said releasepins are pushed inwardly into said central bores of said axle shafts toa second predetermined position.
 14. A quick-release type axle systemfor use in an in-line skate, comprising: a primary axle shaft forrotatably supporting a skate wheel on a pair of wheel bearings about arotational axis, and said primary axle shaft having a first central boreformed through at least a portion thereof; a secondary axle shaft forinsertion into said primary central bore along said rotational axis, andhaving a second central bore extending along said rotational axis; andan axle release pin for insertion into said second central bore of saidsecondary axle shaft, and causing said primary and secondary axle shaftsto automatically lock with each other when said release pin is pushedinto said second central bore of said secondary axle shaft to a firstpredetermined position within said second central bore, andautomatically unlock said primary and secondary axle shafts from eachother when said release pin is pulled outwardly from said second centralbore of said secondary axle shaft to a second predetermined position.15. A quick-release type axle system for use in an in-line skate,comprising: a primary axle shaft for rotatably supporting a skate wheelon a pair of wheel bearings about a rotational axis, and said primaryaxle shaft having a first central bore formed through at least a portionthereof; a secondary axle shaft for insertion into said primary centralbore along said rotational axis, and having a second central boreextending along said rotational axis; and an axle release pin forinsertion into said second central bore of said secondary axle shaft,and causing said primary and secondary axle shafts to automatically lockwith each other when said release pin is pushed into said second centralbore of said secondary axle shaft to a first predetermined positionwithin said second central bore, and automatically unlock said primaryand secondary axle shafts from each other when said release pin ispushed inwardly into said second central bore of said secondary axleshaft to a second predetermined position.
 16. An in-line skate having aquick-release type axle system, comprising: a bearing spacer for spacinga pair of wheel bearings within a skate wheel in said in-line skate; apair of axle shafts for rotatably supporting said skate wheel on saidwheel bearings about a rotational axis, and each said axle shaft havinga central bore and engaging with said bearing spacer along saidrotational axis; and a pair of axle release pins for insertion into saidcentral bores of said pair of axle shafts, respectively, and causingsaid axle shafts to automatically lock with said bearing spacer whensaid release pins are pushed into said central bores of said axle shaftsto a first predetermined position within said central bore, andautomatically unlock from said bearing spacer when said release pins arepulled outwardly from said central bores of said axle shafts to a secondpredetermined position.
 17. An in-line skate having a quick-release typeaxle system, comprising: a bearing spacer for spacing a pair of wheelbearings within a skate wheel in said in-line skate; a pair of axleshafts for rotatably supporting said skate wheel on said wheel bearingsabout a rotational axis, and each said axle shaft having a central boreand engaging with said bearing spacer along said rotational axis; and apair of axle release pins for insertion into said central bores of saidpair of axle shafts, respectively, and causing said axle shafts toautomatically lock with said bearing spacer when said release pins arepushed into said central bores of said axle shafts to a firstpredetermined position within said central bore, and automaticallyunlock from said bearing spacer when said release pins are pushedinwardly into said central bores of said axle shafts to a secondpredetermined position.
 18. An in-line skate having a quick-release typeaxle system, comprising: a pair of axle shafts for rotatably supportinga skate wheel on a pair of wheel bearings about a rotational axis, andeach said axle shaft having a central bore; and a pair of axle releasepins for insertion into said central bores of said pair of axle shafts,respectively, and causing said axle shafts to automatically lockrelative to each other when said release pins are pushed into saidcentral bores of said axle shafts to a first predetermined positionwithin said central bore, and automatically unlock when said releasepins are pulled outwardly from said central bores of said axle shafts toa second predetermined position.
 19. An in-line skate having aquick-release type axle system, comprising: a pair of axle shafts forrotatably supporting a skate wheel on a pair of wheel bearings about arotational axis, and each said axle shaft having a central bore; and apair of axle release pins for insertion into said central bores of saidpair of axle shafts, respectively, and causing said axle shafts toautomatically lock relative to each other when said release pins arepushed into said central bores of said axle shafts to a firstpredetermined position within said central bore, and automaticallyunlock when said release pins are pushed inwardly into said centralbores of said axle shafts to a second predetermined position.
 20. Anin-line skate having a quick-release type axle system comprising: aprimary axle shaft for rotatably supporting a skate wheel on a pair ofwheel bearings about a rotational axis, and said primary axle shafthaving a first central bore formed through at least a portion thereof; asecondary axle shaft for insertion into said primary central bore alongsaid rotational axis, and having a second central bore extending alongsaid rotational axis; and an axle release pin for insertion into saidsecond central bore of said secondary axle shaft, and causing saidprimary and secondary axle shafts to automatically lock with each otherwhen said release pin is pushed into said second central bore of saidsecondary axle shaft to a first predetermined position within saidsecond central bore, and. automatically unlock said primary andsecondary axle shafts from each other when said release pin is pulledoutwardly from said second central bore of said secondary axle shaft toa second predetermined position.
 21. An in-line skate having aquick-release type axle system, comprising: a primary axle shaft forrotatably supporting a skate wheel on a pair of wheel bearings about arotational axis, and said primary axle shaft having a first central boreformed through at least a portion thereof; a secondary axle shaft forinsertion into said primary central bore along said rotational axis, andhaving a second central bore extending along said rotational axis; andan axle release pin for insertion into said second central bore of saidsecondary axle shaft, and causing said primary and secondary axle shaftsto automatically lock with each other when said release pin is pushedinto said second central bore of said secondary axle shaft to a firstpredetermined position within said second central bore, andautomatically unlock said primary and secondary axle shafts from eachother when said release pin is pushed inwardly into said second centralbore of said secondary axle shaft to a second predetermined position.